Chapter 8: Chapter 8

A week after the engagement party. She emerges into the company, ready to start her work for the day. She saunters into her office and heads to her coffee machine.

Her door creaks open, she knew who would that be. She knew the only person that would saunter into her office when they want to without waiting for permission. “Good morning, Isabella. Something steamy to start your day with?”

She raises her shoulders, smiling a little. “You read my mind.” He walks further, looking around the familiar place. She settles down on her office chair before carefully taking a sip of her coffee. He heaves a sigh, settling down on the visitors chair. “I wanted to tell you that--”

The door creaks open again and Madelyn ambles in, hoisting a paper bag and looking suspiciously bright eyed for this early in the morning. “My love, what are you doing here?” She didn't hesitate to sit down on his laps. She throws her arms around Ethan, who barely manages to hug her back, instead, he got irritated when she sat on his laps. “Madelyn, what are you--”

“Saying good morning to my honey bear.” She tries to kiss him but he pulls away. He shrugs her off him. “We have company. If you have forgotten, this happens to be her office, and we were having a meeting, right now!”

“It’s just Isabella. This is your company! Ours if I may say!” She shrieked. “Yeah, don’t let me stop you.” Isabella plasters a smile on her face. “Just pretend I'm not here,” Isabella spoke again and starts taking her coffee which she has long lost her appetite for. “See? She understands.” Madelyn throws her arms around him but he steps back.

“Still, I don't need you to put on a performance in my working place, Madelyn. You can just act normally.”

“Whatever, I'm here to see Isabella anyway.” Madelyn tosses her hair over her shoulder and turns her back on Ethan to focus on Isabella who nearly chokes on her coffee.

“Grab me a coffee and let’s chat.” Madelyn spoke nonchalantly as she beamed at Isabella. “We talked about this, Madelyn. It’s not appropriate to ask Isabella or any of my employees to fetch you things.”

Madelyn rolls her eyes, but moves to get her own cup of coffee from Isabella’s coffee machine. Isabella turns to catch his gaze just as Madelyn turns to look at them. She takes a sip and immediately spats it out? “Urgh! You drink this? Yuck!” She dashes to the sink and spill the coffee out.

“That’s so wasteful, Madelyn. You can’t just waste food like that.”

“You call it food, I call it trash!”

“You--”

Ethan shoots her an apologetic look. Isabella breaths out and closed her mouth. Madelyn chuckles, “just as I thought.”

Ethan heads out immediately as Madelyn tails behind him.

Later that day, after working hours. Isabella works tiredly to the cafeteria to grab her lunch that has turned to dinner. Rubbing her sore neck, she enters almost bumping into someone. “Ethan? What are you doing here? This is the first time I'm seeing you in here, well on your birthday but-”

“Same as you. I’m guessing you haven't eaten lunch after the long, tiring meetings. I apologize about that.”

“Anyway, I'm looking for something delicate and sweet to eat.” He looked around the empty, spotless place. “Mr. Grayson, are you threatening to eat me?” She asked, perplexed. He smirked, darting his eyes on her. “I wasn't thinking about that, but now that you've mentioned it.” Her breath catches at the intensity in his gaze. She could only imagine what’s going through his head right now.

“Seriously, though, you don’t have nearly enough gluten to satisfy me right now.” Ethan lets out a heavy sigh after rummaging around the enormous kitchen.

“Giving up?”

“Heading out actually. I'm really tired of eating veggies. I want to eat something like burger and fries... maybe a slice pie and smoothie definitely.”

Isabella smiled, attempting to leave the place when he grabbed her wrist. She paused, turning her head to look at him. “Would you like to come with? I mean I’ll drop you off after we eat. And I think we both could use a little something sweet to tide us over.”

Isabella smiled, liking the idea of spending the rest of the night with her boss. She nodded her head.

After dismissing David for the day, Isabella and Ethan slip out of the company. “Dare I ask where are you taking me?”

“You can ask, but I won't tell. It’s a surprise.” She think back on the last few surprises she has had. “I'm not sure I like surprises.”

“Really? I've recently come to like them.” Isabella scoffed. “You mean like when Madelyn surprised you on your birthday?” Ethan couldn't help but laugh it out. “God no. I was thinking more about when you suddenly appeared into my life and decide to take my heart.”

He leads her into a small diner. She inhales deeply as the smell of salt grease fills her nose when she entered. “Oh God, this has gotta be heaven.”

The waitress approached, giving them a welcoming smile. “Grab a seat wherever you like, and I'll be right with you.”

Ethan looks at her, “ladies first.” The two of them find a quiet booth in the back. She slides into her seat next to him, settling so their sides are touching. She sighs as she melt into his warm, delicate touch. “Comfy?” He asked gazing at her. “Very. I could stay this way forever.”

“Really? There are a few other positions I'd prefer. Although all of them do involve having you in my arms.”

She shares a small, innocent smile as their server hurries over. “What can I get you started with?”

“What are your specials today?” Ethan asked, not bothering to go through the menu. “We've got the sweetheart special right now. Perfect for a couple like you two if you’re interested.”

“Us? A couple? What makes you say that?” Isabella asked, feeling a bit curious. “Trust me, I've seen more than my share of couples in love pass through here. You've got that glow about you.”

“Really? You think so?’ Ethan asked the question. “Love?” Isabella gave utterance to, astonished.

“Opps, have you not said that to each other yet? Well, I’m so sorry I brought that up and forget I said anything. Consider the Sweetheart Special on the house.”

Isabella puts the rest of her order before the waitress leaves. She gazes at him, very aware of the silence that settles over the table. Then it hits her, she’s basically on a date with her boss!

“You doing okay over there?”

“Oh, yes. I was just thinking about how I've never been here before. It’s nice. I cook all the time, but it always tastes better when someone else does it for you. Especially if your cooking is horrible. Which maybe mine is. Ohmygod I’m going to stop talking now.”

Ethan gave her hand a reassuring squeeze as she takes a deep breath in. “It’s just me, Isabella. You don't have to be nervous.”

She raised a brow, smiling a bit. “Who said I was nervous?” He just smiled, and she scowled. “Ethan, damn you for knowing me too much.”

He couldn't help but chuckle. “I think its cute. A little confusing, but cute.”

“This is... well, it’s different. It’s not the same as all the other times we’ve talked before.” She tried to make him understand but Ethan chose to be ignorant about it. “Cause we’re in a diner?”

“Cause we’re obviously on a date!” She muttered in a low voice, almost panicking. “And you’re still engaged to Madelyn.”

She fiddles with her fingers, lowering her head to avoid looking at him. After a moment, she feels his arm wrap around her shoulders. She leans into his touch, wishing all her troubles away. “I'm sorry, Isabella. I was being insensitive to your feelings. I didn't invite you out here to make you feel bad. I just wanted to treat you to a piece of pie, I promise.”

“I know, but it’s just... it’s all so confusing.”

“Hope I'm not interrupting.” The waitress sets down a large vanilla milkshake and an extra straw. “The rest of your food will be right out.” As soon as the waitress leaves, Ethan looks at her, waiting for her to elaborate.

“Let's just enjoy the night, starting with this milkshake.” Isabella grinned at the alluring cup of milkshake looking back at her.

“Are you sure?” He asked, worriedly. She nodded her head, smiling. “Positive. Dibs on the cherry.” She pops the maraschino cherry in her mouth before he could protest, and Ethan laughs. “Okay, fair enough.”

The waitress returns with their burgers and fries. Her stomach growls as she happily survey their plates. “This... this is heaven.” She swallows hard, anticipating the first bite.

“Wait till you try the pie.”

She digs into her food with total abandon, only stopping to steal a stray fry off Ethan’s plate or sip from the milkshake. “I can't remember when last I had a good burger and fries like this. The sugar.... Yum.”

“In the future, we will just have to satisfy our sugar cravings in other ways...”

“Oh? Got something in particular in mind?” She asked, teasingly. He opens his mouth to answer, just as the waitress drops off the pie. Isabella smirks as she walks away again. “You're not getting out of answering that easily.” She gave him a teasing look.

Ethan’s eyes darkened...

“You already know exactly what I'm thinking, Isabella.” She couldn't help but stare as Ethan sinks a fork into the flaky pie crust, digs up a bit, and curls his lips around it. “I want...” She pouted her lips. “What do you want, Isabella? Tell me, and it’s yours.”

“Want you to feed me.” She beams, above suspicion. “Your wish is my command.” With a glint in his eyes, Ethan spears a bit of pie and lifts the fork towards her lips. She opened her mouth. “Oh my....” The dessert is rich and tart at the same time, and she moan at the taste of it. Ethan grins at her and then hesitates. “You’ve got a little something on your lip.” He leans closer, smoothing his thumb over the speck of cherry sauce. Before you can think about it too hard, she darts her tongue out to lick his fingertip.

Isabella...” He calls out in awe. He reaches to cup her cheek, drawing her closer. Her eyes flutter shut.

Ethan’s phone buzzes on the tabletop, distracting them both with the sudden, loud vibration. “Oh... I'd better take this.” He cleared his throat before answering the phone.

“Hello? Oh yes. I've been meaning to tell you.” His eyes flicks back to Isabella, holding a stoic look. “Yes, she's great. You want to... next weekend? Uh... alright. See you then.” Ethan let's out a long sigh as he hangs up the phone.

“What was that about?” She asked, concerned. “My mother. She wants to meet you.” He breaks the news. “Me?” He nods his head. “She has this policy that whenever I hire a new employee, she has to see them herself. She just came back recently from Italy and requested to see the new supervisor.”

A week later. Hannah visits to help Isabella get ready to for the Graysons’ country club garden party.

“Ethan said his mother and step father want to meet me. Can you believe it? I'm just the supervisor, what is my business with his family?”

“There’s nothing just about you, Isabella. Besides, you said it’s a policy. Take it as you’re just going there for another interview which you will perform well.”

Isabella nodded her head “I guess that’s true. I'd better make sure I make a good impression!” Hannah grin from ear to ear. “That’s what I’m here for. Show me whatcha got baby sis.”

Hannah and Isabella dig through her closet, picking out dress after dress. After a few minutes, Hannah pulls out a long, floral sundress with a touch of elegance. “Ohmygod, this one speaks to me! His parents will love you in it. Not to mention, you'll totally fit in at a country club.”

Isabella beams, taking the dress away from her sister. “Let me try it on...”

Few moment later, Isabella walks out from the bathroom wearing the dress. She spins around so Hannah can get the full view, the skirt billowing out as she does it. “So?”

“Even I want you to be my daughter in law in that dress. You’ll have them asking ‘Madelyn who?’ By the end of the day.”

Just then the door bell interrupts Isabella from responding and she knew no doubt it was her boss. She took a deep breath before heading out of the room to answer the door. Behold, he was standing at the door step. She gave him a welcoming smile. His eyes widen slightly as he takes her in from head to toe. “Wow, you look...”

“Gorgeous? Ravishing? Stunning?” Hannah interrupted him. Isabella turns and shoots her a glare to shut up. “Oh hello, I didn't realize you had company.” Hannah gave him a smile, “I'm Hannah, Isabella’s elder sister.”

“And she was just helping me get ready. Thanks again, Hannah.” Hannah approaches her with a hug. “Trust me, it was my pleasure. I’ll get out of your hair now. Good luck.” Hannah waves and steps out of the house.

He guides her to the car. “Let me guess, David doesn't work weekends?” He opened the front door for her. He smiled as he shook his head. “We’re going to go pick up Madelyn now.” Isabella nodded her head, and turned her gaze away from him.

After they set to his parent country club garden. Isabella tries to focus on the beautiful sight outside but Ethan's whispered conversation with Madelyn drifts to her. “You know how my mother feels about tabloids. They're not going to be happy that our engagement leaked like that.”

Madelyn glared at him. “I don't get what the big deal is. It’s not like they didn't want us to get married.” She responded in a hush tone. Ethan sighs, frustrated before the day even starts. “Just because my mother and step dad are being polite doesn't mean they aren't pissed too.”

Isabella casually edge forwards so she could hear better. “You don't know my parents like I do. Image is all that matter to them.”

Madelyn rolls her eyes. “I can’t imagine a more perfect image than two people from impeccable families coming together, can you?” Sounds like image is all that matters to Madelyn.

“No one is above reproach. Our engagement was announced via tabloid. I can't say it enough.”

Madelyn groans, raising her voice. “But Liam’s ex girlfriend can crash New Year’s party, grab the mic, and tell him off in front of the entire club?”

“They've always held me to a different standard than Liam. You know that, Madelyn.”

“Well, it sounds to me like you're overreacting.”

The conversation comes to a stop as Ethan pulls the car into the country club. Isabella hesitated before stepping out of the car. She starts walking as Madelyn walks past her further into the garden. Isabella pauses when she notice Ethan lingering by the car.

“Are you coming, Ethan?” He heaved a desolate sigh. “You can go ahead. I need some fresh air, I think.” Ethan waves and sets off around the corner. She glances at the front of the country club. It looked like Ethan could use a friend at that moment, Isabella thought. And she wasn't exactly anxious to meet his parent without him.

She turns and heads to where she saw Ethan followed. She finally track him down in the country club’s private garden. But he's so lost in thought that he doesn’t hear her walk up. “Ethan? Everything alright?” He heard her voice. He turned, gaping at her. “Isabella? Of course. Everything’s fine.”

“Oh yeah? That was really convincing.” Ethan smiles sheepishly as he makes room for her on the bench. “That obvious, huh?”

“To me, yes. I mean, your parents have been gone for months, and a lot has changed. It can't be easy to have to face them after... everything.”

Ethan shakes his head almost in disbelief, before turning to look out over the water. “I’ll never understand how you can know me so well after such short time.”

She shoots him a teasing look, smiling. “Well, you're a hard person to ignore.” He looks at her, already feeling the desire to have her in his arms. “Oh? What makes you say that, Ms. Jonathan?”

“Common, look at you.” She gestures to him, taking in his brooding eyes luscious lips, letting her gaze wander lower and lower. “It’s so hard not to stare.”

Ethan chuckles, looking more relaxed than he has all day. “So... are you going to tell me more? Or do I have to keep guessing?” She asked casually, turning to scan through the garden.

“As amusing as that would be...” Ethan trails off, sighing softly. “Honestly, I do want to talk to you, but I probably shouldn't.” He shrugs it off.

“Says who?” He gave her a little smile before responding. “Polite society?” She looks around again, waving her hands exaggeratedly. “I don't see any ‘polite society’ here, or do you?”

Ethan chuckles softly. “Isabella.” He was close to opening up, she could sense it. Just needs a little nudge. “Here, let me help you relax.” She moves to stand behind him and rub against his muscles with her thumbs. “Oh... mygod! That feels amazing.”

She continues to massage him, letting his moans guide her. She feels him melt against her touch as her fingers work wonder. “You can tell me anything, Ethan. I'm not going to judge. I'm not going to tell. I'm just going to listen.”

“I think that’s exactly what I need... Madelyn has been badgering me about my mood all morning, but she just seems annoyed I'm not acting right.” Isabella nodded, trying to understand what he said. “Her style of comforting doesn't exactly make her easy to open up to.”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “That’s an understatement.”

“From what I head in the car, it sounds like you think your parents are going to be mad about the engagement?” He nodded his head, melancholic. “Among other things.”

“Don't tell me your mother doesn't approve of Madelyn. I thought she basically handpicked her for you?”

“She did, her and Liam’s father. When we were younger. I think they figured the time for us to be together was long gone when I showed no interest in getting married. I was so focused on my company, I never looked at Madelyn that way, as a partner.”

Isabella’s face fell. “Then, why?”

“It’s not really about me and Madelyn. I mean, I'd definitely hoped that my parents would be in good mood because of the news, especially my mother, but...” He swings his eyes back to her as she moves to sit beside him again. “I think I'm more nervous abut them meeting you than anything else. And I've never been nervous about my mother meeting any of my new employees.”

“Me?” She gapes her eyes at him. “I can't explain why it means so much to me that they like you.... But it does.” The enormity of Ethan’s confession settles over her. “Oh”

He heaves a desolate sigh. “Exactly. Oh.”

“Are you that certain that they won't like me? I might get fired right?”

“I honestly don't know. They could go either way, and that’s what worries me. I can't make a plan without more data. I hope they see what I see.” He finish talking with a smile on his face. “And what’s that?” She questions. “A strong, beautiful woman with an incredible mind. Not to mentions great with supervising.” Ethan reaches out to cup her cheeks, and lean she leans into his touch. “Well, lucky for you, I'm incredibly lovable too. You’ve got nothing to worry about.”

Ethan couldn't hold back the chuckle. “You have won over almost everyone in your oath so far.”

“If it’s important you you that your parents like me, I'll win them over too. And don't worry... everything will work out as long as we’ve got each other’s backs, we’ll be good.”

He heaves a sigh of relief, smiling. “You know, your optimism is infectious.” Ethan stands and offers her a hand. “Thank you, Isabella. You always know what to say.”

Ethan helps her to her feet, then she steps forward to wrap her arms around him. “I’m always happy to help.” His arms loops around her, holding her flush against him. Her eyelids flutter close as she saver his nearness, his warmth. “I don't know what I'd do without you, Isabella.” Ethan’s words were whispered, so quiet she’s not even sure if she heard them right.

She doesn't know what she’d do without him either.

She’s wasn't sure how long she has been wrapped up in his embrace when a bird flutters through the tree above them, the noise breaking the trance. “We should probably head in.”she pulls aways immediately, remembering where they were. “Feeling better?” He beams brightly. “Actually, yes. Like I can take on a the whole Grayson clan at once.”

“Then my work here is done.”

Ethan leads her through the country club and up to the exclusive rooftop garden.

They cross the rooftop to join Ethan’s family. Isabella looked at the stately man and woman as Madelyn hovers close behind. “Mom, dad, this is Isabella Jonathan. Isabella, this is my mother and step father. Henry and Lauren.” Lauren scanned Isabella from head to toe before speaking. “It’s nice to officially meet you.” She held a stoic expression, making it hard to tell wether she was nice or not.

“Hmm. Hello.” Henry said, nonchalantly. If he could convince his wife, Isabella wasn't the right person for the job. He preferred one of his brother’s to be working there, not Ethan’s choice, who happen to be the owner of the company and has the right to choose whoever he wants.

“It’s nice meeting you too.” Lauren looked at her briefly and nodded her head trying to smiling but failed. “Isabella is such a blessing to have around the company. Really knows how to handle her work.” Madelyn smirks at her.

“She’s a lot more than that. I can’t remember when last I was satisfied with a worker, well after Tyler.” His mother smiled at him. She loved seeing her eldest and only son smiling. “Such a high praise from the CEO.”

“And, I love your dress. We were just in Italy, and your outfit looks like it could've come directly from the runways of Milan.”

Isabella smiled, almost heaving a sigh of relief at Lauren’s comment. “Thank you! I thought it’s be perfect for such a special occasion.”

“As, yes. Today is a special occasion, since Lauren and I weren't able to attend Ethan and Madelyn’s engagement party in person.” Lauren gapes at Henry. “Dear, I thought we agreed not to bring this up...”

Ethan shoots him a glare. “As I said before, we though it best to move the date up after the tabloids leaked the news. And you could've been there If you hadn't extended your business trip a third time.”

“It sounds like the tabloids are really to blame. They can be such vultures. No respect for privacy.” Isabella chirped in, making Lauren more impressed with her. “You're exactly right, Isabella. This engagement was a dream come true and they ruined it. Oh look, Madelyn. Your mother and brother just arrived.”

Madelyn looks at them as she sighed. If she had a way of stopping them from actually showing up. “Everyone, please remember not to mention my father. I can’t handle another outburst like last time.”

Her brother raised his hands up, beaming. “Don't worry, everyone. The party can start now.” Isabella stands back as the others greet the new arrivals, but after a few moments, Ethan motions her forward. “This is Isabella, my supervisor, this is Madelyn’s brother Micheal and mother Kris.”

Micheal takes her in from head to toe. “What a beautiful specimen. Call me Mic. I demand it.” Isabella gave him a polite smile. “Mic, I'm at your service.” Micheal laughs heartily. “Are you? This little get together just got very interesting.”

Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Ethan’s fists clench, but he doesn’t say anything. “Why would you invite an employee here? She doesn't belong here.” Kris spoke enraged which happen to irk Isabella.

“For Lauren to meet the new employees of course.” Madelyn retorted almost rolling her eyes. “She doesn't seem to fit the position a supervisor to me. Look at her, who even hired her?”

Isabella felt tempted. All she wanted to do was say something that would hurt Madelyn’s mother but Madelyn shoots her a pleading look. “I can assure you, I am doing my work the way it is supposed to be done!” Isabella forces herself to smile at Mrs Jason, intent on making a good impression on Ethan’s parents. “I can say, I've seen her records and she does performs well,” Henry finally admitted. Lauren nodded in agreement. “As I recall, kris, you never quite managed to wrangle Mic, and you just had the one boy.”

“Or maybe he just needed a man’s touch.” Madelyn spoke referring to their father. Her mother sent daggers her way which Madelyn ignored. Isabella looks at Madelyn in awe. Even Madelyn is backing her up here? She couldn't imagine her growing up with such a bitch as her mother.

“Maybe we should all take a beat and--” Liam walks in, interrupting Ethan. “Don’t worry everyone, the party can start now!” Mic looks at him, mouth agape. “Hey, that was my line!”

Everyone turns as Liam join the group. He greets the others, then slings an arm around Isabella’s shoulders. “So, what’s everyone think of Isabella so far?” Isabella looks at everyone, mouth agape. “You really don’t have to answer that.”

“Love her. Ten outta ten. Would recommend.” Mic comments. “I think she has a certain elegance about her.” Lauren stated, smiling brightly. “Indeed, not everyone can keep up with the graysons.” Henry spoke lastly.

“Uh oh. That sounds like more adopting talk from these two! Look out, Isabella. I've heard they’re in the market for a new daughter.” Ethan grimaced at Liam’s words. “Do you have to make things awkward, Liam?” Liam shrugs, “it’s part of my work.”

She heaves a sigh of relief as the focus of the party moves away from her.

Later, the sun starts to set, and the waiter comes Aruba with fresh tray of champagne glasses. Kris takes a flute and calls for a toast. “Ehem! Thank you all for coming to congratulate my beautiful daughter and her future husband on their upcoming nuptials. Madelyn has been run ragged at Jason industries for far too long. Now she can finally fulfil her purpose to become a wife and hopefully mother. After all, a woman in a position of power in the business world is like an unstable explosive, especially around that time of the month. Right, Ethan?”

Isabella furrowed her brows, thinking of the audacity that woman has. Madelyn sets her flute down on a nearby table with a loud clunk. As Madelyn turns to leave, Isabella finds herself unable to bite her tongue any longer. “Actually, Mrs. Jason, there are plenty of examples of modern, thriving societies ruled by women. But I have a feeling you’ll beed prod validated by a man.”

“So? What does that have to do with Madelyn role at the Jason industries?” Isabella smirks. “Even I can tell she would be a great CEO. In fact, I bet you’ve already seen gains under her management.”

Henry nodded, “Isabella’s right about that.” Kris furrows her brows, the last person she’d want their company to be managed by was Madelyn. She rather give Micheal the position. “My daughter’s abilities aren't the question. It’s matter of right and wrong. Women belong at home.”

“Kris, really? Then why aren't you at home?” Lauren asked the question. “I guess you’ve got some kind of fact- repellant force field around you. You’re right about woman though... just that you aren't doing what you believe.”

Isabella places her empty champagne flute on the tray and storms out of the country club. She doesn't dare look back, bur she feels everyone staring at her retreating back.

She stood by the gate waiting for her taxi driver to arrive. She hears someone behind her. He looked disturbed. “Isabella, wait.”

“Ethan, I am sorry. I know today was important to you.” She briskly apologized before he could say anything. “You don’t have to apologize for standing up to kris. I only wish I’d said something first. Although I do love the poetic irony of her publicly humiliated by a man.” Isabella nods, but can't bring herself to return his smile.

“The Jasons have been family friends for so long, we’ve gotten used to dealing with kris’s world view. You’re a good reminder that we’re gotten complacent.”

“Glad I could help.” Then she turns her head away. A taxi pulls up. She stands but Ethan reaches out to touch her arm, causing her to halt. “Isabella, let me take you home. It’s the least I can do, after the afternoon you were just forced to have.”

“What about everyone else?”

“That won’t be a problem. Everyone is already busy for the nigh. Please. I think we could both use a break from all this, and there’s something I want to show you.”

The taxi driver honks. She looks between Ethan and the taxi, thinking. She smiled and nodded her head. “Great . “I’ll let my parents know and be right back.” He pays the taxi driver for the unfortunate, and when he returns, they scroll together to his car.

A few minutes later, her and Ethan are coasting along. “Thank God we’re out of there. I feel like I can breathe again.” She breaths a sigh of relief. “It is nice to leave the city behind for a little bit.”

“Oh, I meant the country club. Between trying to impress your parents and not strangle Madelyn’s mother, I felt like a juggling clown in a circus.” Ethan couldn’t held but chuckle. “Welcome to my world.” He pats her thighs, and her cheeks turned red.

“As far as crazy family gatherings go, though, today didn't even crack up the top three.” She gazes at him, smiling before she replies. “Well, now you have to tell me about your top three.”